Depression
Depression
Depressive Disorders can affect individuals across the lifespan, presenting differently depending on age and circumstances. Proper evaluation is crucial to determine whether you or a loved one may be experiencing a depressive disorder.
Key Types of Depressive Disorders:
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder:
- Primarily affects children, presenting as temper outbursts, irritability, and persistent sad mood.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):
- Affects adolescents and adults with symptoms like persistent depressed mood and loss of interest in activities for at least two weeks.
- Associated with physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia):
- Long-lasting symptoms of sad mood for most days, continuing for years.
- May also include low energy, poor concentration, and low self-esteem.
Peripartum Depression:
- Depression occurring after childbirth.
Situational Depression:
- Depressive symptoms following a major life event, such as the loss of a loved one.
Common Features:
- Sad or irritable mood with cognitive and physical changes that disrupt daily functioning.
- Symptoms lasting at least two weeks with noticeable impairment may indicate a depressive disorder.
Support at Ally Psychiatry:
- Comprehensive evaluation, medication management, therapy, and innovative treatments like TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Common Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Children and Teenagers:
In Younger Children:
- Sadness or irritability
- Clinginess and worry
- Complaints of aches and pains
- Refusal to attend school
- Being over- or underweight
In Teenagers:
- Sadness, irritability, or feelings of negativity and worthlessness
- Anger and feeling misunderstood
- Poor school performance or attendance
- Extreme sensitivity and social withdrawal
- Use of recreational drugs or alcohol
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits (too much or too little)
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Self-harm or risky behaviors
Having a baby is a miraculous event, but it can bring significant challenges, including physical and emotional changes for the mother. Sometimes these challenges can feel overwhelming, leading to feelings of disconnection from the baby or a lack of love or care, ranging from mild to severe.
If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone, and help is available. Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that affects both the brain and physical health. Mothers may also experience anxiety disorders during or after pregnancy.
At Ally Psychiatry, we are here to support you through this challenging time and help you find the care you need.
Depression is not a normal part of aging and should always be taken seriously. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed and untreated in older adults, who may be hesitant to seek help.
Symptoms of Depression in Older Adults:
- Memory problems or personality changes.
- Unexplained physical aches or pain.
- Fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, or reduced interest in sex (not linked to medical conditions or medications).
- Preferring to stay home, avoid social activities or trying new things.
- Suicidal thoughts or feelings, particularly in older men.
Seeking help can make a significant difference, and treatment is available.
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